The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has taken over investigations into the death of Mathare boda boda rider Eric Otieno, who died after allegedly sustaining severe injuries while in police custody at Muthaiga Police Station.
The National Police Service (NPS) said the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had initially commenced investigations after receiving a report of Otieno's death but has since handed over the matter to IPOA.
NPS spokesman Muchiri Nyaga said the decision was aimed at ensuring a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Otieno's death.
“The National Police Service wishes to update the public on the ongoing investigation into the death of Erick Otieno at Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital,” Nyaga said in a statement.
“Upon receiving the report of his passing, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations promptly initiated inquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.”
Nyaga said IPOA had now taken over the investigations and assured the public that the police service would fully cooperate with the oversight authority.
“The investigations have now been taken over by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority,” he said.
“The National Police Service remains steadfast in its commitment to cooperating with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority in conducting a thorough, impartial and timely investigation.”
The police service also extended condolences to Otieno's family, friends and loved ones, while thanking them and members of the public for their cooperation.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of the late Otieno, and we are grateful for the continued cooperation and support extended by the family and members of the public,” Nyaga said.
The NPS urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid speculation as investigations continue.
It also appealed to anyone with information that could assist investigators to come forward and provide the details to authorities.
“Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is encouraged to report at the nearest police station,” Nyaga said.
Otieno, a boda boda rider from Mathare, died hours after he was released from Muthaiga Police Station, where he had been held following his arrest.
According to his family, relatives were contacted to collect him after his release and found him in severe pain.
Otieno allegedly told the family members that five police officers involved in his arrest had assaulted him while he was in custody.
He reportedly complained of severe pain in his ribs before being taken to hospital, where he later died while receiving treatment.
A post-mortem examination subsequently established that Otieno had suffered massive internal haemorrhage caused by abdominal trauma, including a ruptured spleen.
The examination also reportedly revealed multiple injuries consistent with trauma caused by a blunt object.
